(670 The Score) If the Bears are inclined to draft an offensive tackle, USC's Austin Jackson offers a potential fit in the second round.
The 6-foot-5, 322-pound Jackson has the size and gifts needed for a long career in the NFL, and he's willing to do whatever it takes to improve.
"I have a work ethic unlike any other," Jackson said at the NFL Combine in February. "I see what needs to be fixed within myself, and I'm able to correct it and improve."
Jackson played in 39 games across three seasons at USC before declaring for the NFL Draft after his junior year. He was a first-team All-Pac-12 tackle in 2019, starting all 13 games for the Trojans.
Considered a first-round talent by some evaluators, Jackson could fall to the second round in what's a deep class of offensive tackles. The Bears own two selections in the second round, at No. 43 and No. 50 overall.
If Jackson is on the board, the Bears will be looking at a tackle with prototypical size and room for growth who could potentially work under new offensive line coach Juan Castillo. For his part, Jackson is eager for the challenges at the next level.
"Passionate. Competitive. I want to win," Jackson said. "Line up with my teammates, my guys, and I play to win. Compete. Dominate."
If the Bears choose to take a tackle in the second round, they'd do so with the goal of creating competition on offensive line and to find a potential replacement for Bobby Massie or Charles Leno Jr. Massie, who turns 31 in August, can be released after the 2020 season to save cap room. Leno could create more job security for himself by agreeing to a contract restructuring.
Given Jackson is a somewhat raw talent, the Bears could find it appealing to develop him in 2020 and hope they addressed one of their tackle positions for the long term.
"Control what you can control," Jackson said. "And bring your best to the party."
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago's sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.
